BMW Has Launched 523bhp Versions Of The X5 And X7 SUVs

BMW’s two flagship SUVs have been given even more power with just a year left on the clock before even mightier M versions arrive.

A big wedge of extra life comes via an engine upgrade that liberates an extra 67bhp and 74lb ft. That’s partly thanks to a stiffer, stronger engine block. Friction has been reduced still further with graphite-impregnated resin with refinement boosted by a crankshaft damper.

Both cars share the same 523bhp and 553lb ft 4.4-litre V8, not to mention the greater part of their chassis. They use an eight-speed torque converter automatic with launch control and a reportedly rear-biased all-wheel drive setup. In certain wildly unlikely scenarios it can even thump 100 per cent of available torque to the rear wheels.

The new fastest X5 can launch to 62mph in 4.1 seconds with the chubbier X7 0.4 seconds behind, making them 0.6 and 0.9 seconds faster than their predecessors. Naturally, both are limited to 155mph.

There’s a new tune for the X5’s double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear setup. The bushings are bespoke while the springs are now firmer. Buyers can either stick with standard-fit 20-inch wheels or plump for 21-inch or 22-inch upgrades. The X7 gets air springs as standard – a system that’s optional on the X5.

Elsewhere there are some smaller changes, like making the gaping assortment of front grilles and vents look angrier than ever. The door sills feature a swanky illuminated M50i logo and the steering wheel, gear lever and instruments are all M parts bin items.

UK prices have been confirmed as ‘really expensive.’ We kid; prices haven’t been announced, but you get what you pay for and these two deliver a lot of car.